The University is working with Coursera to offer course specializations, a new method of Massive Open Online Courses, MOOCS. The course specialization certificate serves to stand out as a more important credential than simply taking a MOOC class and offers capstone experiences.

Starting this fall, the University declared two new business specializations, one in digital marketing and one in improving business finances and operations. Additionally, the University allows specializations in data mining and cloud computing.

Coursera is an educational firm that works with universities and organizations worldwide to provide free online courses for anyone to take.

The University joined Coursera in the late summer of 2012 and launched its first MOOCs in the fall.

Charles Tucker, the vice provost for undergraduate education and innovation, said the University produces courses and Coursera helps the University market and deliver those courses. Currently, these courses cannot be taken for course credit.

“There are several levels of involvement that somebody who signs up for a MOOCs can choose, so right now, on Coursera you can go on and you can participate in any MOOCs for free,” Tucker said. “All you need is an email address and internet connection.”

He added there are several benefits to MOOCs, including that someone can choose what they want to learn. Students at the University who are having trouble with the courses they are currently taking can register for similar MOOCs, which may give them a better understanding of their courses.

People have the option of paying $49 to receive a verified certificate from Coursera, which states that they completed the course. Tucker said that by doing so, people can show their potential employer that they have finished this course. Tucker said it remains to be seen what these certificates mean in the job market today.

Rajagopal Echambadi, associate dean of outreach and engagement, said the first MOOCs from the College of Business launched in January and by the end of the April 2015, there will be seven courses released regarding the College of Business.

He said MOOCs brings great visibility to the college and allows more people to witness the quality of the college and the faculty.

“They understand what great faculty we have. It is about the visibility of the University and the college and communicating the quality of what we’re offering,” Echambadi said.

Tucker said MOOCs could help those who already have a bachelor’s degree but want to work in a new job and develop a new skill.

“They become a kind of continuing education, professional development (tool) allowing people to learn and grow to expand out to find different kinds of working and make different kind of contributions,“ Tucker said. “I think it will become possible in the future to take some of these MOOCs and to have additional activities in a higher engagement kind of experience that actually earns course credit.”

Ruge can be reached at [email protected].